A large, bright Departures level with a vaulted and partly glazed roof leads to the check-in area. Although check-in itself has a low ceiling the Departures level has a more open, spacious and certainly more modern feel than the building it replaced. Check-in desks can be busy at peak periods but Brussels still does not have the level of traffic to make it unpleasant.
Airlines serving Brussels.
The catering and shopping outlets on the Departures floor are limited, but upstairs on the Promenade level there is a better selection. The catering outlets range from coffee and pastries through pizzas and burgers to full table service meals. The à la carte Pilot Club restaurant provides a standard of cuisine not found at many airports. It is expensive but well worth trying. Also worth trying is the Seafood Island in the Airside shopping area beyond passport control.
Arrivals on the ground floor has the usual selection of car rental, hotel and information desks. There is also direct access to the Airport train station for services to Brussels.
Shopping in the Landside areas is disappointing but the tax free shops Airside have a good selection of goods. Some store fronts on the mezzanine level are not occupied giving a slightly depressing feel to the terminal. This should improve as the shops are let.
The departure pier containing the 'B' gates is almost 700 metres long. It does have moving walkways but be aware that Gate B40 is a long way - leave plenty of time to get out there. Small tax free shops and snack bars are available near the departure gates.
Overall, the terminal provides a pleasant travel experience with more shops, better restaurants and generally improved facilities throughout ensuring that Brussels now has an airport well equipped to handle the needs of air travelers.
